A towel rail, also known as a towel radiator or simply heated towel rail, is a small feature designed to heat towels before use. For years, European hotels have always used them in conjunction with radiators as separate, removable towel-dryers/rails. The towel radiator is an energy-saving towel-dryer/ radiator designed for both drying and warming towels, in the bath or shower, and for general application. These unique features are what make these rails attractive to homeowners and interior designers alike. They are available in a variety of sizes, materials, and finishes to fit any decor.
A radiator on a towel rail can be electrically or mechanically heated. The electrical version features a control switch that can set a maximum and minimum heat level, while the mechanical kind features brushes and a fan motor to evenly distribute heat and disperse it into the room. Both types are affordable, simple to operate, but must be regularly maintained by charging and cleaning the heating elements. Mechanical towel rails heat up through convection and are usually inexpensive when purchased new.
A radiator on a towel rail that is heated electronically may not be as easy to work with as one that uses traditional convection. Many electronic radiators have an on-off switch that must be manually used to activate the electric element. Once turned on, the radiators heating coil generates an electromagnetic field that warms the towel. Some may even include an option for a clock-type timer or thermostat.
A bathroom radiator is another option when looking to conserve space in a small bathroom space. These heated towel rails can be used in conjunction with standard electrical radiators or they can be stand-alone and plugged into a direct-vent fireplace. A bathroom heated towel rail can provide a source of additional hot water for washing or rinsing without using the electric outlets in the area. Using a radiator in the area allows the bathroom to remain cool during bathing and can make taking a shower more comfortable in cooler temperatures.
The size and number of radiators that may be required will depend upon a wide range of factors. For example, the heated towel rail will need to provide enough steam to adequately heat and dry a person. The heat output capacity of the radiator must be considered. Many people choose a radiator that is large enough to accommodate an individual but also provides extra space to add a second or third person. The size of the space where the heated towel rail will be installed is also important since it will determine how much steam can be generated.
When choosing an electric towel radiator, many users prefer one with the maximum heat output possible. It’s a good idea to consider what is needed in the bathroom space when shopping around for a towel radiator. Space is essential since the unit will likely be placed in an open area. Choosing a model with a high heat output will ensure that more steam is generated to help warm the bathroom. Units with lower heat outputs tend to cost less, but they may not generate as much steam to effectively warm a bathroom. This is important to keep in mind when considering a model to purchase.
A good rule of thumb to follow is purchasing an electric appliance for use in the bathroom where a hot water bottle or other warm appliance is located. When a towel rail or heated towel warmers are added to this setup, the electric appliance will be much more effective at providing heat to the bathroom space. Installing an additional heated towel rail with a low heat output may not be as effective as an investment. Also, an additional heated towel storage rack may be needed to store warm clothes or linens longer.
When choosing a model to purchase, the most common features included in a towel rail are the single-lever basin and the kludges. These features are most commonly found in traditional units. Other styles include a single lever pedestal, double lever pedestal, and a mitigated mono commander style. If the bathroom space you are installing in is small, the single Lever basin and kludges are a good compromise; however, if the space is large, the double Lever, double-kludge, and mitigated mono commander style can be chosen.